Alumni Spotlight: Rio Mao 2018

From Ben Lippen to Building the Future

Rio Mao’s journey began halfway across the globe, inspired by a recommendation and a leap of faith. Introduced to Ben Lippen School by Steve, a family friend, Rio left his hometown in China and joined the Ben Lippen community as a resident student. His initial days at the school were marked by kindness and support from teachers who became more than just educators—they were mentors, friends, and, in many ways, family.

Among Rio’s most memorable Ben Lippen experiences were the state math competitions. These competitions weren’t merely about formulas or equations; they were about camaraderie and shared experiences. “Every semester, we’d take a day or two off and go out with our teammates,” Rio recalls, a smile spreading across his face. Mrs. Hodges, one of his beloved teachers, would accompany the students, often treating them to a meal and making the outings unforgettable. “It wasn’t just about competing. It was about feeling valued and connected,” he explains.

After graduating from Ben Lippen, Rio pursued his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Northeastern University, where he graduated with Magna Cum Laude honors. Reflecting on his academic success, he attributes much of his preparation to the challenging AP courses at Ben Lippen, including Calculus, Physics, and Statistics. "Those classes gave me a head start," Rio says. "They laid the groundwork for my career as a mechanical engineer."

But Rio's interest in mechanical engineering began long before his college days. “It all traced back to my hobby of playing LEGOS,” he shares, referring to his childhood fascination with building things piece by piece. The thrill of constructing, designing, and creating led him to pursue mechanical engineering, where he now applies that same sense of curiosity and passion. 

Today, Rio is a mechanical engineer in Austin, Texas, where he plays a vital role in designing and modifying manufacturing lines for automotive companies. His day-to-day responsibilities range from coordinating the fabrication and installation of fixtures to collaborating with clients on project feasibility. “I enjoy what I am doing right now,” Rio says. “And I’m still exploring my next career goal. I hope I find it soon!”

Looking back, Rio quickly acknowledges the influence of Mrs. Hodges, whose guidance went beyond the textbook. “Mrs. Hodges taught me to think critically,” he recalls. “She didn’t just give us the answers but encouraged us to figure things out for ourselves.” According to Rio, this mindset was invaluable in academics and his approach to life and work.

As an international student, Rio faced challenges, but Ben Lippen’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment helped him adapt. “The ESL classes prepared us for the language requirements,” he explains, “and the school provided numerous opportunities to immerse in local culture.” Ben Lippen’s efforts helped Rio feel at home, thousands of miles away from his birthplace, from arranging host families for holidays to organizing tours to amusement parks.

For current Ben Lippen students, particularly international students, Rio offers words of encouragement: “Stay passionate about what interests you,” he advises. “Passion has been my best partner in achieving my goals. It makes all the hard work feel worthwhile.”